Frequently asked questions

What is floating?

Floating, also known by the clinical name R.E.S.T. (Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy/Treatment/Technique), is an experience of weightlessness that is acquired by lying quietly in a dark tank, suspended in a warm solution of Epsom salt. It’s about 10″ deep and so dense that you float effortlessly.

How long does it take?

The floatation session lasts 90 minutes. Allow 10–15 minutes before and after floating for showering and changing. You might also want to allow extra time afterwards to relax in our comfortable lounge with complimentary tea or water.

What do I bring?

Bring a comb/brush and any specialized hair, makeup or eye care products that you may need. Otherwise, we provide everything else – towels, shampoo, body wash, a hairdryer, ear plugs.

What should I do to prepare for a float?

Don’t drink caffeine for several hours before floating. Eat a light meal about an hour or so before hand to keep your stomach quiet. Don’t shave or wax immediately prior to floating as the salt may irritate fresh skin.

What if I can’t swim?

Floating doesn’t require any swimming skills. You’ll actually float effortlessly no matter what shape or size you are.

Can I drown if I fall asleep?

No, the water is buoyant enough to keep you afloat. Plus, your eyes will burn if you get salt in them.

Is it private?

Yes, you float within your own individual room (so there is no requirement to wear a swimsuit). Each float room has its own shower and dressing space for your exclusive use for the duration of your session.

What if I’m claustrophobic?

Surprisingly, there is no feeling of being confined in a tight space because the walls seem to disappear once you’re inside the tank.

Am I locked in?

The tank door does not lock – it simply pushes open. The outer room may be locked for your comfort and to secure your personal possessions. You may leave a session at any time.

Is there a size or weight limit?

No, other than the actual size of the tank itself, which is 8 feet by 4 feet. 6′ 10″ clients weighing over 350 pounds have floated comfortably.

How is water hygiene maintained?

We adhere to the Float Tank Association’s guidelines and comply with stringent health and safety regulations. The water in the floatation tanks contains mostly salt, so the solution is sterile. We use ultra-violet sanitation units and add a limited amount of food-grade hydrogen peroxide to ensure it is totally clean. Also, we filter the water a minimum of three times between each float session.

Can I float if I’m menstruating?

Yes, just follow the same protocol you would for a swimming pool.

Can I float if I’m pregnant?

Floating is great for pregnant women! There is even a special position that relieves the mother’s body from the baby’s weight. We suggest you check with your doctor first, especially if you are in the final month.

Will my skin wrinkle?

No. Unlike fresh water which washes away natural minerals, the water in floatation tanks contains high salt levels so it doesn’t rob your skin of salt (which is what causes wrinkling). Rather, it leaves your skin feeling soft and silky.

Will floating affect my hair treatment?

We recommend that you do not color your hair within a week prior to floating. The salt could disrupt keratin treatments or the glue used in extensions, so you might want to postpone your float if you have had these procedures done recently.

How much does it cost?

A single float session is $89. It’s optimal to have at least 3 sessions to feel the full benefits of floating, therefore we offer 3 sessions for $199. Contact us for other package deals. We accept all major credit/debit cards, checks or cash.

What do you mean by package?

Our prices are reflective of the fact that regular floating is far more beneficial than a single session. Our packages are set up to simplify your visits and make it more cost effective all year round. Over a period of weeks you could save between 25% and 50% on the price of individual floats.

Can I give a float session as a gift?

Yes, many birthdays, special occasions or just the opportunity to experience something great are spent here courtesy of our gift vouchers. You can buy them online, over the phone or during your visit.

Can I come with a friend?

Yes, many clients come in pairs or groups. It’s great to have someone to talk with about your experience. The tanks accommodate only one person at a time, but we have five tank rooms and will schedule your floats simultaneously.

Do I need to schedule an appointment?

It’s always best to schedule in advance as we can get very busy. You can schedule online anytime (use the SCHEDULE tab at the top of the page) or call us between 9am and 9pm every day except Tuesday & Wednesday (closed).

Are the tanks soundproof?

Although we have done our best to insulate the tanks and rooms to minimize noise, we are not the only tenants in our building and therefore cannot guarantee that you won’t hear sounds on occasion.

Is there anyone who should not use the sauna?

See the contraindications list here.

What is the difference between an infrared and a traditional sauna?

Traditional saunas heat the air with steam creating a very humid environment. They can be uncomfortably hot (in excess of 200°F) and difficult to breathe. Infrared heat is drier and more comfortable with temperatures between 100° - 140°F. Infrared heat penetrates the body directly and is seven times more effective than traditional saunas at detoxifying the body. Infrared saunas can produce a sweat composed of 20% toxins vs. only 3% toxins with a traditional sauna.

Is there anyone who should not use the cold plunge?

See the contraindications list here.

First Time Floating?

Don't worry, we are here to help.

OmFLOAT is recognized as the TOP Floatation & Wellness Spa throughout the Northern Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC regions and is featured on the TOP Doctors Interviews which are seen on CNN Headline News, FOX News, Oprah Winfrey Network, CNBC, MSNBC and other networks.

OmFLOAT
43490 Yukon Drive, Suite 111, Ashburn, VA 20147
703-858-3730
Float@OmFLOAT.com

Business Hours
MONDAY, WEDNESDAY - SUNDAY: 9am - 9pm
Closed TUESDAY

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